The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Donald R. Neilson (MCSN: 507271), United States Marine Corps Reserve, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving with Company B, First Battalion, Twenty-ninth Marines, SIXTH Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands, 16 May 1945. Although stunned by an enemy shell and ordered to the rear during an attack against heavily-defended enemy ridge in the Naha-Shuri sector, Corporal Neilson unhesitatingly assumed command when his Platoon Leader became a casualty and, effecting an immediate reorganization, continued to lead his men in the completion of the assigned mission. When his platoon again suffered severe casualties and the men became badly shaken two days later, he succeeded in restoring their confidence and in organizing an efficient fighting team, demonstrating outstanding coolness and bravery under fire until severely wounded. His indomitable fighting spirit, fortitude and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest tradition of the United States Naval Service.